Applications For Smith River Are Due Feb 20

Because Permits are required for private floats on this majestic site don't wait too long or you may miss your chance. Information inside.

Noted for its spectacular scenery and renowned trout fishery, the Smith River is unique in that it has only one public put-in and one public take-out for the entire 59-mile segment of river. Boat camps located along the remote river canyon help preserve the unique quality of this area.

The Smith River between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge is the only river corridor managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks as a permitted river. Permits for private floats on the Smith River are allocated to the public via a lottery system prior to the spring season. Permit applications are typically available the first week of January each year, with an application deadline of mid-February.

Consult the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to get an overview of the Smith River and check for Advisories, Restrictions, and Closures. If you don’t find all the answers you’re looking for on this website, you can contact the Smith River State Park office in Great Falls at (406) 454-5840.